Donald Lee Simmons

Donald Lee Simmons, 94, of Metamora, IL, formerly of Moline, IL, passed away at 9:09 am on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL.

He was born on February 7, 1929, in Davenport, IA, to Leo and Mabel (Coats) Simmons. He married Margaret Johnson in Cordova, IL on July 25, 1953. They enjoyed 65 years of marriage.

Surviving are his daughter, Nancy (Mike) Knussman of East Peoria, IL; son, Matt (the late Ava) Simmons of Peoria; grandchildren, Andy Simmons of Chillicothe, IL, Jodi (Johnnie) Schwindenhammer of Dunlap, IL, and Amanda (Matt) Meier of Indianapolis, IN; great-grandchildren, Blake and Ariana Schwindenhammer and Jesse, Benjamin, and Caleb Meier; and sister, Sandra (Wesley) Tank of Ames, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.

After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1951-1953, Don began his 45 year career in photography sales, eventually owning Elliott Camera Shop in Moline. He shared his love of cameras and photography through various camera clubs, and later combined it with his love of golf, as he volunteered for the John Deere Classic as a Committee Photographer. Don learned the craft of woodcarving from craftsmen at Silver Dollar City. He carved animals and holiday figures and Margaret painted them. His Santas are especially treasured as they adorn the Christmas trees of family and friends and are fondly cherished.

Don was a member of Memorial Christian Church in Moline, IL. His faith was very important to him, and he served as deacon and on various boards for many years. Don loved dogs, especially his faithful pal Maizey. Some of his favorite activities included going to his grandchildren’s activities as they were growing up, traveling to Branson and Florida with Margaret, and in his later years playing euchre and pinochle and watching videos of his five great-grandchildren.

Don was the most genuine and kind-hearted man. There are no words to describe how much he will be missed.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, November 20, 2023 at Great Oaks Community Church in Germantown Hills with Pastor Paul Siedl officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his service on Monday at the church. A Graveside Service for the burial of ashes will be held at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Snyder Village Residents in Need Fund, 1200 East Partridge Street, Metamora, IL 61548 or to Memorial Christian Church, 1624 Avenue of the Cities, Moline, IL 61265. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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